HMX Caramel Pudding vs. KTT Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the KTT Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Cream Yellow linear switches present compelling options tailored to different typing experiences. The Caramel Pudding switches are celebrated for their resonant, clacky sound signature and an exquisitely smooth typing feel, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback alongside a fluid keypress. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switches also offer a distinctively clacky sound, but their design includes a shortened bottom-out distance and a long-pole stem, which provides not only resonant audio feedback but also a uniquely bouncy typing sensation due to their lengthened spring. While both switches deliver engaging auditory experiences and linear action, they cater to slightly different preferences in tactile feedback and acoustic profiles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Cream Yellow switches present intriguing differences in their top housing materials, leading to distinct auditory experiences when typing. The Caramel Pudding features a nylon top housing, which is softer and more absorbent compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Cream Yellow. This fundamental divergence affects the acoustic properties of each switch; the nylon top conveys a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound, creating a more subdued auditory experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Cream Yellow allows sound to resonate more sharply, resulting in a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile. Hence, a user can expect the Caramel Pudding to provide a mellower and warmer typing experience, while the Cream Yellow targets a clear and resonant output.
Examining the bottom housings of both switches reveals a notable similarity. Both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Cream Yellow utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which again contributes to a deeper and more rounded sound profile. The nylon's softer properties ensure that when the switches bottom out, the resulting sound remains consistent with a softer tone, regardless of the differences present in the top housing. Consequently, both switches share a foundational characteristic in this respect, ensuring that the bottoming-out noise and feel remain deep and full. Thus, the Caramel Pudding’s deeper sound profile is complemented by a similar acoustic experience when pressing down the Cream Yellow switch.
The interplay of top and bottom housing materials results in varied overall experiences across the two switches. While the Caramel Pudding’s nylon top mitigates higher frequencies and emphasizes lower tones, the Cream Yellow’s polycarbonate top enhances brightness and clarity. However, the nylon's shared presence in the bottom housing of both switches means that they will produce a more cohesive experience upon bottoming out. Therefore, while each switch has its aesthetic and auditory characteristics defined by its top housing material, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom half provides a common auditory denominator. Users can expect that while they will experience different prominent sound profiles from each switch, the foundational qualities brought in by the nylon bottom help to maintain a certain level of predictability in the tactile feedback and sound when the keys are fully pressed.
Weight
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch offer distinct actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Caramel Pudding has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, compared to the Cream Yellow's 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Caramel Pudding is 52 grams, while the Cream Yellow reaches 58 grams, reinforcing its heavier feel. Thus, the Caramel Pudding is ideal for those who prioritize ease of actuation and comfort, while the Cream Yellow may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience with its firmer resistance. Overall, the Caramel Pudding is the lighter option in both actuation and bottom out forces, leading to a more forgiving typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, there is a slight but notable difference. The Caramel Pudding switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is marginally longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Cream Yellow switch. This means that for users who prefer a more substantial feel when actuating a key, the Caramel Pudding may be the better choice due to its slightly deeper travel, providing a more pronounced tactile response. Conversely, if quicker feedback is a priority, the Cream Yellow, with its shorter travel distance, could be more appealing, offering potentially faster actuation for gaming and rapid typing. Thus, while both switches benefit from shorter travel distances relative to traditional switches, the Caramel Pudding is the longer switch, and the Cream Yellow is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Caramel Pudding has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Pudding for $2.99.
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding switches are known for their resonant, clacky sound signature, providing a distinct auditory feedback that many users find satisfying. This clackiness can create an engaging experience, especially in a gaming or typing setup where sound plays a crucial role in the overall atmosphere. On the other hand, the KTT Cream Yellow switches also produce a clacky sound that is sharp and snappy, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive quality. With both switches leaning towards a clacky sound profile, users can expect a similar auditory experience when using either on a compatible board.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding switches stand out for their exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for seamless keystrokes that enhance comfort during extended use. The smooth action can significantly aid in reducing finger fatigue and support faster typing speeds. In contrast, the KTT Cream Yellow switches are designed to offer a uniquely bouncy feel, characterized by a spring-like sensation and an encouraging rebound when a key is pressed. While the Caramel Pudding emphasizes smoothness, the Cream Yellow offers a lively rebound, catering to different preferences for tactile feedback.
In summary, both the HMX Caramel Pudding and KTT Cream Yellow linear switches deliver a clacky auditory experience, albeit with slightly different sound characteristics. While the Caramel Pudding provides a smooth typing feel, the KTT Cream Yellow brings a bouncy and lively responsiveness into play. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference regarding the smoothness versus bounciness of the typing experience, as both will provide a satisfying sound profile.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch, you should consider your specific preferences in typing feel and sound profile. If you favor a medium-light key resistance combined with a smooth and clacky auditory experience, the HMX Caramel Pudding is an excellent choice. Its 52-gram bottom-out force allows for quick, effortless keystrokes, making it suitable for both lengthy typing sessions and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust tactile experience with a slightly higher resistance—58 grams—and enjoy an engaging, bouncy feedback sensation, the KTT Cream Yellow would be more to your liking. The distinctively clacky sound and its long-pole stem design provides a unique resonance that can enhance the enjoyment of your keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize a lighter, smoother action with a focus on auditory richness in the Caramel Pudding or a more dynamic, bouncy tactile response with the KTT Cream Yellow.
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